Oct. 20, 2020 -- October is
National Principals Month, and to celebrate, we're sharing what makes our principals so special. Today, we get to know Mr. Carpenter (Noble Elementary), Ms. Pulling (Roxboro Elementary), and Dr. Williams (Delisle Options Center).
Patrick Carpenter
Noble Elementary
Where are you from originally, and where did you attend school?
I am originally from Berea, OH. I went to St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland and am a proud BLUESTREAK from John Carroll University here in University Heights. After graduating college, I went to Boston, MA to do a volunteer opportunity as a second grade teacher. While there I got my Master's Degree from Boston College in Curriculum and Instruction. Returning to Ohio and CHUH, I then received my Administration license through a licensure program at Cleveland State University.
Where were you working/what were you doing before you became a school principal in CH-UH?
Before becoming a principal here at Noble, I was the Title Lead at Oxford Elementary School right down the street. I loved being a reading teacher and supporting the students throughout the school. I'm lucky to still get to serve in the Noble neighborhood community :)
Before my Title Lead role, I was a third grade teacher. Back in Boston, I was a second grade teacher.
What's your favorite thing about the school you lead?
WOW!!! What a hard/easy question - while there are SO many reasons to love Noble, hands down my favorite thing is the amazing people I get to see and interact with everyday. The teachers and staff are dedicated, passionate, and supportive of all learners and families. In turn, our families are there when we need them, committed to our school's growth and achievement. And our scholars - I cannot say enough about the scholars we serve. They are the light of our school - growing each day and becoming the natural leaders that they are. It is a privilege to be here!
What was your dream job growing up?
Growing up, I always loved performing. I dreamed of being an actor or singer and, the truth is, getting in front of 400 people at assemblies now still brings back that excitement :)
What's your favorite food?
Chocolate!!!
Tell us one fun fact about yourself - a talent, hobby, or anything that makes you unique!
I sing in a Cleveland based Men's Chorus!
Shelley Pulling
Roxboro Elementary
Where are you from originally, and where did you attend school?
I graduated from Westlake High School and attended Cleveland State University for my Bachelor's and Master's Degrees.
Where were you working/what were you doing before you became a school principal in CH-UH?
I was a principal at Perry Elementary School for 14 years before coming to CHUH. Before that, I taught 4th grade in Galveston, Texas and taught 5th grade in Cleveland. When I first started college I wanted to go into business. I was a manager of a movie theater at the time and decided I loved doing the training program for my staff so I went into education. I really loved teaching people and wanted to step away from managing. After teaching for a few years, I got right back into leading people though when I became a principal. In addition, I was elected president of my sorority without even running for it while I was in college and was a leader of that group for my last two years after leaving my job as a manager. I guess the world was telling me I should be a leader!! I love it!
What's your favorite thing about the school you lead?
My favorite thing about Roxboro Elementary School is the supportive students and parents. I love collaborating with all of you. They make this job so much fun!
What was your dream job growing up?
I really wanted to work as a flight attendant or a realtor. I really enjoy traveling and looking at houses. I actually go to open houses all the time even though I love where I live.
What's your favorite food?
I have become a latte lover over the past few months. I enjoy making them myself now with the many different sugar free flavors to make it so I can cut down on the calories!
Tell us one fun fact about yourself - a talent, hobby, or anything that makes you unique!
I enjoy watching the sunset at the beach. I even go to see the sunsets in the winter and bundle up. I also enjoy seeing the sun come up. Lately, I have been seeing it from my office and it is so beautiful. There is something about the beginning and ending of each day that is special!
Dr. Brian Williams
Delisle Options Center
Where are you from originally, and where did you attend school?
I grew up in Warrensville Heights, OH. I attended Ohio University, John Carroll University, and Concordia University Chicago.
Where were you working/what were you doing before you became a school principal in CH-UH?
Prior to becoming a school leader - I served as a 5th grade teacher at Boulevard Elementary School and a 6th & 7th grade teacher at Monticello Middle School.
Why do you love being a school principal/leader?
School leadership provides the opportunity to serve students, teachers, and families in the CH-UH community!
What was your dream job growing up?
I had the dream of becoming a Pitcher in Major League Baseball.
What's your favorite food?
French Fries
Tell us one fun fact about yourself - a talent, hobby, or anything that makes you unique!
I worked as a high school baseball umpire.